After four decades of service and professional leadership within our Jewish community — most recently as president and CEO of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore for 21 years — I find myself returning to a simple, yet powerful idea: that our future rests in the hands of those who we prepare today.
It is from this belief — and a deep well of personal passion — that I agreed to join ranks with the leadership of Jmore on a new initiative. The Maryland Jewish Media Initiative is aimed to cultivate and empower young, emerging leaders (primarily teens and college-age) in the vital arena of communications with the particular emphasis on developing the skills required to compete in the marketplace of ideas.
In today’s world — marked by rising antisemitism, widespread misinformation and increasing polarization — it has never been more urgent to invest in the development of our next generation of leaders and communicators. Our future depends on individuals who are proud of their identity, rooted in their values, and equipped to speak out clearly and confidently in the public sphere.
We need young voices who can tell our stories with nuance, truth and strength — whether through writing, public speaking, visual storytelling or digital media. These leaders will be the ones to foster understanding, build bridges and ensure that Jewish life not only endures but thrives for generations to come.
Jmore remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering outstanding coverage of the people, stories and happenings that shape our vibrant Baltimore region — both in print and across dynamic digital platforms. As we expand through the Maryland Jewish Media Initiative, our mission deepens with a powerful extended focus: cultivating the leadership skills of our next generation.
This crucial deliverable will be brought to life through purposeful, engaging and exciting content programming, backed by best-in-class resources designed to nurture leadership journeys. Through innovative community contests, hands-on internships and immersive experiential opportunities, the initiative will actively collaborate with local schools, universities, shuls and community organizations to tap into the incredible talent that defines our region — ensuring a strong, connected and inspired Jewish future. These contests and experiential opportunities will also serve as valuable resume enhancers, helping our next generation stand out as they position themselves for the schools and careers of their choice.
To ensure that the Maryland Jewish Media Initiative not only endures but truly reflects the richness and diversity of our community, it requires the active support and commitment of all of us. This is a mission-driven endeavor, rooted in purpose — not profit. Now officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Maryland Jewish Media Initiative invites you to join in this vital effort through both your time and tax-deductible contributions. Guided by a dedicated nonprofit board composed of community leaders, academics and content experts, we are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful and lasting impact. The stars are aligned for us to do great work together.
When asked to be part of this important mission, I hope your response will be an emphatic yes — as we bring much-needed intentionality to an effort that will benefit our community today and for generations to come. You will be hearing a lot more about specific plans in the next weeks and months. In the meantime, please consider being part of this important endeavor.
Our Baltimore community is different because — collectively — we work together to make it so! May we all go from strength to strength!
To support the Maryland Jewish Media Initiative, please visit our giving page at jmoreliving.com/donate.
Marc B. Terrill is the founder and president of Marc Terrill Consulting. He served as president and CEO of The Associated for 21 years.
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